Lahaina Chapter President Kaipo Kekona (left) addresses members’ questions during the elections segment of the convention. Christian Zuckerman of Waianae was the other nominee running for president.

WAIKAPU — Hawaii Farmers Union United (HFUU) has a new voice. The 12th annual HFUU Convention, held from Dec. 2-4 at Hawaii Taro Farm in Waikapu, brought 16 chapters together from across the state.

Kaipo Kekona was elected the new president of Hawaii Farmers Union United.

Born and raised in Hawaii, Kekona is a resident of Maui Komohana (West Maui) and a father of four.

He leads with ‘ohana, cultural traditions and island values as his foundation.

Kekona currently serves as the Aha Moku O Ka’anapali representative — an advisory role on traditional resource management to the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources.

He also serves as manager of HFUU’s Ku’ia Agricultural Education Center and a board member of Na ‘Aikane ‘O Maui Cultural Center.

With over 15 years of experience in Hawaii’s agriculture, starting as a harvester in the pineapple fields, he is no stranger to hard work.

Kekona is committed to carrying forward HFUU’s mission of supporting family farms.

He looks forward to building relationships with Hawaii’s farmers and empowering the next generation toward the establishment of a more sustainable and diversified economy.

“We are committed to serving our family farmers and bring with us an outstanding team with an extensive inventory of both state and national resources,” said Kekona.

“Being chartered under the National Farmers Union allows HFUU a seat at the table amongst the legislators where we, the people, can not only be heard but can introduce policies to help guide our communities to a more vibrant and sustainable environment. We ask you to join us in providing your table with a buffet filled with the bounty of Hawaii’s farms.”

HFUU hopes to extend its reach to the multi-generational farmers in Hawaii and bring forth a strong, grounded representation of Hawaii’s agriculture industry.

HFUU looks forward to closer collaboration with farmers, ranchers and all departments, organizations, and community members throughout Hawaii, as well as national and international opportunities.

Hawaii Farmers Union United is a 501(c)(5) nonprofit and a chartered division of the National Farmers Union (NFU), with the mission of advocating for family farmers through cooperation, education and legislation.

Members consist of farmers, consumers and visitors. Anyone who supports and appreciates Hawaii’s local produce can become a member. Visit HFUU.org for more information.